Monday, January 9, 2012

Fashion Tips and Tricks: The Cheongsam

9 January 2012

Status: Resisting urge to eat junk food (currently doing a detox)

Time: 2.00AM

T-minus 2 weeks to Chinese New Year guys! I don't know about you, but I'm really excited. Next to Christmas and Easter, Chinese New Year is one of my favourite holidays. I mean, it's the time of the year when family members from far and wide come back home, and reunite as a family. Absolutely heartwarming.

I confess, I'm a huge shopaholic. And Chinese New Year is the one time of the year when I have THE perfect excuse to shop. But this year, I've promised myself that it's going to be different.

This CNY, I've resolved to buy only 2 things for my wardrobe.

A full Cheongsam, and a Cheongsam top.

Image courtesy of: zimbio.com

I love Cheongsams. And why not? Cheongsams are actually really sexy. I especially love bareback and sleeveless ones. I think they make women look sultry, and very elegant. Though some might disagree with me, I actually believe that the Cheongsam can be worn, not only during Chinese New Year and special occasions, but on any other day.

How? Elementary, my dear ones.

It's all in the pairing.

1. Jeans

Image courtesy of: cnngo.com

This is precisely why I want a Cheongsam top. So I can pair it with anything in my closet. Wearing a Cheongsam top with a pair of jeans makes your ensemble a little more casual. You can actually prance around in college or on the streets without looking overdressed.

2. The high waist factor.

Image courtesy of: cnngo.com

Now, I know that I've mentioned this a bajillion times on this blog, but high waisted pants and skirts, are absolute saviors. Pair your Cheongsam with a pair of high waisted pants or skirt to give it a more modern twist. Add a nice belt and accessories to make your outfit more interesting. I'm not sure how many people would agree with me on this, but I actually think it looks pretty cute.

Be extra careful if the Cheongsam you're using is skin-tight and made of silk material. I don't think anyone would want a ripped Cheongsam for CNY, would you?

Remember, fashion isn't just about riding with the trends. Sometimes, a little bit of creativity is all you need.

3. Tights and Funky Shoes

Image courtesy of: Lookbook.nu, Ebba Zingmark

Call me crazy, but I actually think this works. This is a combo for the the more daring fashionistas out there.

Pair your Cheongsam qipao with a pair of colourful tights (or tights with a nice pattern would do). However, make sure that the colour/pattern does not clash with the qipao, or you might come off as if you have clothes dyslexia. Wear a pair of really cool shoes (like platform boots, for example), and voila!

You're sure to be in the spotlight this CNY.

Well, there you have it. My take on modernising the Cheongsam for everyday wear. So, go ahead. Try something a little different with yours. After all, where's the fun in fashion if you don't experiment a little with it?

Thanks! Yes, that's true. I've been having a lot of difficulty finding a good modern-looking cheongsam top... Or one that I actually like, for that matter. :/ I think the simpler the top, the better. Much easier to pair it with modern clothes. :)